Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the government’s focus on strengthening the fisheries sector and supporting animal husbandry in rural areas in the Budget 2026-2027 speech. These sectors play a crucial role in rural livelihoods and national food security, contributing significantly to agricultural GDP and employment.
The Budget includes plans for the integrated development of 500 reservoirs and ‘Amrit Sarovars’ to enhance the fisheries value chain in coastal areas. This initiative aims to create market linkages involving startups, women-led groups, and Fish Farmers Producer Organisations to boost farmers’ income.
Investments in landing centers, cold chains, and processing facilities are expected to enhance productivity and price realization for stakeholders in the fisheries sector. The Budget also focuses on sustainability, stock management, and infrastructure support in coastal ecosystems.
Animal husbandry is another key area targeted for increasing farmers’ income. The government plans to introduce measures to support entrepreneurship development, modernize livestock enterprises, and create integrated-value chains in livestock, dairy, and poultry sectors to provide quality employment opportunities in rural and peri-urban areas.
